High School Bukit Mertajam (HSBM), officially known as Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Tinggi Bukit Mertajam, is one of the oldest and most respected secondary schools in Penang. Established on 18 January 1927, it was the first government English secondary school in Province Wellesley (now Seberang Perai). Founded during the British colonial administration under its first headmaster E.D.L.M. Stowell, the school adopted the traditions of the English public school system, emphasizing academic excellence, leadership and sports. Due to its long history and strong educational reputation, HSBM is recognised as a Premier School (Sekolah Premier) in Malaysia. Among its notable alumni is Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, the 5th Prime Minister of Malaysia.

Rugby has been an important part of the school’s sporting culture for decades. The High School Bukit Mertajam rugby team is known as the HSBM Scorpions, representing the team’s spirit of courage, resilience and unity. Built on strong discipline, teamwork and competitive spirit, the programme continues to develop talented young players while maintaining the school’s proud sporting tradition.

The HSBM Scorpions regularly compete in district, state and national school rugby competitions such as MSSPP and MSSM tournaments, producing players who have gone on to represent Penang and higher levels of rugby. With a heritage of nearly a century, the team continues to uphold the school’s motto, “Aut Coepisse Noli Aut Confice” (Accomplish or Do Not Begin), reflecting determination and excellence both on and off the field.